Video: FenCon VII is a paradise for Dallas sci-fi geeks

by Mike Bullock

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The annual sci-fi literary convention covered nanotechnology, costumes, and Filk music.

ADDISON — The Crowne Plaza Hotel in Addison transformed into a world of fantasy on Saturday and Sunday, when sci-fi fans gathered for FenCon VII, a fan-operated sci-fi literary convention that's taken place in Dallas for the past seven years.

This year's event featured lectures on nanotechnology, costume making, fiction writing, and more. Organizers expected a turnout of about 800 but actual attendance seemed smaller than that. Guests included John Randall, a self-proclaimed nanotech nerd from the University of Texas at Dallas, and vice-president of Zyvex Labs, who fielded questions on how nanotechnology is taking place in North Texas. Costume artist Kevin Roche was on hand to sign autographs and talk about costume making.

Outside of the discussion panels, FenCon had lots to offer. For the first time, the gaming room was open for 24 hours, allowing gamers to geek out all night on games like Dungeons & Dragons and Battletech. The second component of the event was a showcase of "Filk music" -- folk music with a Dr. Demento twist -- which was heard throughout the event. In this video, FenCon Chair Julie Barret explains what Filk music is, and you'll see a performance by an act named October Country.

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